Sparks Could Fly at White House Meeting on Immigration

Sparks could fly at the White House Thursday, as Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano meets leading advocates for an immigration overhaul.

Immigration groups that have long pushed for major changes in U.S. immigration laws are increasingly speaking out against the Obama administration’s continuation — even expansion — of some of the most controversial enforcement programs embraced by former President George W. Bush.

The Obama administration’s own embrace of those tactics was quietly and uneasily accepted by many advocates, so long as a promised White House push on a comprehensive immigration overhaul remained on the horizon.

But some are speaking up much more loudly since President Barack Obama said last week that immigration legislation wouldn’t get serious action until next year. He cited the slate of other significant legislative priorities for the administration, including health care.

Napolitano, whose agency handles immigration issues, has been a focus of their anger. She’s also been designated by the White House to lead the way on a legislative overhaul.

Matt Chandler, a spokesman for the Department of Homeland Security, said his boss “is looking forward to hearing the thoughts of stakeholders as the administration and Congress continue to work toward comprehensive immigration reform.”

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